22 May 2024 | Shima Afrasiabi and Alireza Partoazar
Nanoparticle-based strategies are being explored as effective methods to target bacterial biofilm-related genes, offering a promising alternative to traditional treatments for persistent infections. Biofilms, which are complex microbial communities, are resistant to antibiotics and host immune responses, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Nanoparticles (NPs) such as silver (Ag), zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO₂), copper oxide (Cu), and iron oxide (Fe₃O₄) can penetrate biofilms and interfere with gene expression, including those involved in efflux pumps, quorum sensing, and adhesion. This interference can inhibit biofilm formation or development, making NPs a potential therapeutic target for biofilm-related infections. However, the environmental impact and cytotoxicity of NPs must be carefully managed. The review highlights the effectiveness of various NPs in targeting biofilm-related genes, particularly in pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus mutans. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms of NPs in disrupting biofilm formation and the need for further research to ensure safe and effective use of NPs in clinical settings.Nanoparticle-based strategies are being explored as effective methods to target bacterial biofilm-related genes, offering a promising alternative to traditional treatments for persistent infections. Biofilms, which are complex microbial communities, are resistant to antibiotics and host immune responses, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Nanoparticles (NPs) such as silver (Ag), zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO₂), copper oxide (Cu), and iron oxide (Fe₃O₄) can penetrate biofilms and interfere with gene expression, including those involved in efflux pumps, quorum sensing, and adhesion. This interference can inhibit biofilm formation or development, making NPs a potential therapeutic target for biofilm-related infections. However, the environmental impact and cytotoxicity of NPs must be carefully managed. The review highlights the effectiveness of various NPs in targeting biofilm-related genes, particularly in pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus mutans. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms of NPs in disrupting biofilm formation and the need for further research to ensure safe and effective use of NPs in clinical settings.